Is it Raphinha versus Yamal for the Ballon d'Or, or can Dembele achieve it?

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In a year devoid of a significant international tournament, triumphing in the Champions League is undoubtedly crucial for clinching the Ballon d’Or. Therefore, that ought to conclude the discussion about Real Madrid.  Here are the top 10 contenders for the award, based on the bookmakers' odds…  Favorites to claim the 2025 Ballon d’Or   10. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia [Paris Saint-Germain] Outstanding since his January transfer from Napoli, aiding the French team in effortlessly securing another league championship while more significantly remaining focused on achieving that coveted Champions League trophy.  9. Kylian Mbappé [Real Madrid] "Personal awards matter as well, such as the Ballon d’Or." I understand what I need to do to achieve victory, many asks both on and off the field. "When I take all the necessary steps to achieve victory, I will achieve it," says the Frenchman.  And if he fails to accomplish all that he must – which he definitely has not – then he will...

Setback for Arsenal as Gabriel is out for the season due to injury ‘needing surgery’


Arsenal's defender Gabriel Magalhaes will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury that necessitates surgery, confirmed the Premier League team. 

The Gunners player suffered a hamstring injury in the first half of their 2-1 win against Fulham in the Premier League on Tuesday night. 

Gabriel will now be absent for the remainder of the Premier League season, as Arsenal also strives for the Champions League title with a two-legged quarter-final against Real Madrid starting next week. 

In response to the injury following the game, Arteta informed reporters: “Concerned because he always wants to stay on and he had to leave." 

"He's uncertain about its size and what it truly is, but he sensed he couldn't go on." 

When questioned about Gabriel's fitness for the Champions League match against Real Madrid next week, Arteta responded: “It depends; there’s a week ahead, but given how he usually is… challenging.” 

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano shared the unfortunate update on social media on Thursday, announcing that the Arsenal defender will be sidelined for the remainder of the season. 

Romano posted on X: “Gabriel Magalhaes will be unavailable until the season concludes." Gabriel needs an operation for his hamstring injury and will be unavailable until the beginning of next season. 


Prior to Arsenal's official announcement, the Premier League team stated: “Following his substitution in our match against Fulham on Tuesday, we can confirm that Gabriel Magalhaes has a hamstring injury that necessitates surgery. 

"Gabi is set to have a surgical repair on his hamstring in the next few days, and will promptly start his recovery and rehabilitation program, with the goal of being prepared for the beginning of next season." 

"All members at the club will be entirely dedicated to helping Gabi return to his complete fitness as quickly as possible." 

Commenting on Gabriel’s injury and the possibility of taking on Real Madrid without the Brazilian, Arsenal icon Ian Wright stated to Premier League Productions on Tuesday: “It’s a huge loss." 

"It’s equally significant in terms of what Saka contributes to our offense, as well as Gabriel’s contributions defensively, set-pieces, leadership, and the fight we require." 

"I believe whatever you mention about Gabriel's drop-off, I'm unsure of Calafiori's fitness right now, but when you observe someone moving that fast and suddenly stopping like that, it’s not just two weeks, it’s a month, even six weeks; it's apparent, he understands it himself." 

"The point is, I realize we’re getting ahead of ourselves and discussing Real Madrid since it’s a huge match, the biggest game of the season for us." 


"With Gabi Magalhaes absent in that match, you're observing Kiwior even today [against Fulham], where there are certain positioning changes that are simply unacceptable when facing Real Madrid." 

“They are searching for any weakness to take advantage of, so you require individuals who are completely on point to ensure Real Madrid scores no goals at home.” “If Gabi Magalhaes were present, I would feel more assured about it.” 


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